Small scale traders in Nairobi have been denied a permit to hold parallel demonstration on March 20, 2023.
The traders conducted a peaceful protest to Nairobi Central Police Station demanding to be allowed to “safeguard” their businesses from the Azimio demonstrators on Monday.
On March 14, Azimio leader Raila Odinga declared the start of mass action against the Kenya Kwanza regime which he termed as illegitimate.
Speaking during the demonstration, the chairman of Small Scale Traders Association Michael Mwangi, criticised the Ministry of Interior for not providing them with guidance on how to protect their businesses.
“We were informed that we must provide notice for a demonstration within 72 hours, which implies that our request to get a permit to demonstrate was denied. As business-people, we are concerned about the impact of the Azimio protests on Monday. Although we acknowledge their right to demonstrate, we do not want our businesses to be jeopardised that’s why we are seeking a permit for a peaceful demonstration to ensure that we can safeguard our enterprises,” said Mr Mwangi.
Speaking during a meeting with leaders from Transnzoia at State House, the President emphasised that Kenya operates under the rule of law and that no individual is exempt from it saying that Kenyans have the right to protest but must do so peacefully and within the law.
“The government will not allow loss of life, destruction of property and looting. We will not allow a few individuals who have refused to accept election results to cause chaos among peace loving people,” said President Ruto.
Mr Robert Arap Kemei, a trader from Nairobi stated that their businesses are in the process of recovering from the pandemic, during which they incurred significant losses.
Furthermore, he believes that the ongoing demonstration will not result in any positive outcomes.
